Understanding Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Insights from Elsa Fertility

Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR) refers to a decline in the quantity and quality of a woman's remaining eggs, which can impact fertility potential. At Elsa Fertility, we aim to provide clarity on DOR, its implications for fertility, and the role of fertility preservation.
What Is Diminished Ovarian Reserve?
Ovarian reserve denotes the quantity and quality of a woman's eggs. As women age, both the number and quality of eggs decline, leading to DOR. Factors influencing DOR include age, genetics, medical history, and lifestyle choices.
Assessing Ovarian Reserve: AMH and Beyond
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a key marker for assessing ovarian reserve. Produced by ovarian follicles, AMH levels correlate with the number of remaining eggs. However, AMH is not the sole indicator. Additional tests include:
- Antral Follicle Count (AFC): An ultrasound measure of small follicles in the ovaries.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone that, when elevated, may indicate reduced ovarian reserve.
- Estradiol: A form of estrogen that can provide insights into ovarian function.
Combining these tests offers a comprehensive view of ovarian health. It's important to note that AMH levels can vary based on age and individual health factors.
Fertility Preservation: A Proactive Approach
For individuals diagnosed with DOR, fertility preservation, such as egg freezing, can be a proactive measure. ASRM supports elective oocyte cryopreservation as a means to preserve reproductive potential, especially when faced with conditions like DOR.
Preserving fertility through egg freezing involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved and frozen for future use. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those who wish to delay childbearing or are undergoing medical treatments that may impact fertility.
Personalized Fertility Planning at Elsa Fertility
At Elsa Fertility, we understand that each individual's fertility journey is unique. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, offering comprehensive assessments and tailored fertility preservation options to support your reproductive goals.
References:
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Testing and interpreting measures of ovarian reserve: a committee opinion. 2020. Available at: https://prod.asrm.org/practice-guidance/practice-committee-documents/testing-and-interpreting-measures-of-ovarian-reserve-a-committee-opinion-2020/
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Fertility preservation. Available at: https://integration.asrm.org/practice-guidance/coding/coding-summaries/fertility-preservation/
Please note that this blog post is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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